The long-awaited Harry Potter Vans collection has been released today and, while reactions are mixed, the overarching feeling is one of disappointment.
“Is it me or does the new Vans + Harry Potter range look like it’s been designed by someone who has only watched the films and not an old school fan?” asked one user, while another said: ”[It] was so close to being good but it’s just not good, what a shame.”
There’s a collection for each of the four Hogwarts houses spanning clothing, accessories and footwear – with each of the four colourways added to Vans’ silhouettes: a Sk8-Hi for Gryffindor, an Era for Slytherin, Authentic for Ravenclaw and the Classic Slip-On for Hufflepuff.
As far as the house-specific collections are concerned, the dark green and black Slytherin products are without a doubt my favourite – the gold and burgundy Gryffindor colourway is just naff.
(I realise this isn’t how the Sorting Hat works its magic, but I’m probably a little old to worry about what hypothetical Harry Potter house I’d be placed in.)
There are also shoes inspired by the Golden Snitch, the Marauders Map, The Daily Prophet and Deathly Hallows.
It’s not all bad – but you have to do some sifting to find the good stuff. Here are our favourites from the collection.
Slytherin Era Shoes, £65
My favourite of the entire collection are these shoes. Not only are my favourite of the vans silhouettes, but the snake texture feels dead luxe. The colourways are quite autumn/winter – so best saved for a rainy day. See more of the Slytherin collection here, including a snapback hat, socks, long-sleeved t-shirt and backpack.
Available in sizes 2.5 – 12.
Iridescent Sk8-hi Shoes, £85
What’s not to love about Vans iconic checkerboard print reimagined for our favourite wizard? The light blue squares with lightening bolts are a subtle nod to the man himself. We stan.
Available in sizes 2.5 – 12.
Harry Potter Golden Snitch Old Skool Shoes, £ 80
Perfect for any budding seeker, these classic Old Skool Vans have sturdy black canvas uppers with gold foil. These have “I Open at the Close” across the heels of the shoes, the words written on the Golden Snitch Harry won during his first Quidditch match. *Wipes tear*
Available in sizes 2.5 – 12.
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